Top 10 African cities with the highest crime rates in early 2025

Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, leads as Africa’s most crime-ridden city with a global crime index rating of 82.0, according to Numbeo’s 2025 rankings. South Africa continues to dominate the list, with six cities among the highest-ranked for crime on the continent.

Nigeria’s Lagos also features prominently, struggling with theft, armed robbery, carjacking, and organized crime. Across African cities, crime rates vary, reflecting issues such as urbanization, socio-economic disparities, and ineffective policing.

Read also: 10 African countries with high crime rates in 2025

While some cities have improved safety, others continue to face daily challenges from petty theft to gang violence, emphasizing the need for urgent policy interventions.

Here are the top 10 African cities with the highest crime rates in early 2025

1. Pietermaritzburg, South Africa

Pietermaritzburg tops the list with a crime index of 82.0, making it the highest-ranked city globally in terms of crime. Residents and visitors face significant safety concerns, with crime reported across various categories.

2. Pretoria, South Africa

With a crime index of 81.8, Pretoria ranks second globally. The city has experienced a range of security challenges, impacting daily life and business activities.

Read also: Africa’s top 10 cities with the most alarming crime rates in mid-2024

3. Johannesburg, South Africa

Johannesburg is third on the list, with a crime index of 80.8, placing it fifth globally. Known as one of South Africa’s major economic hubs, Johannesburg’s safety issues affect its social and economic landscape.

4. Durban, South Africa

Durban ranks fourth in Africa and sixth globally, with a crime index of 80.6. Crime levels in the city are a pressing concern for residents and authorities alike.

Read also: Five South Africa cities rank among top 10 for highest crime rates worldwide

5. Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Port Elizabeth is fifth in Africa, with a crime index of 78.1. It is ranked eighth globally, highlighting the prevalence of safety challenges in this port city.

6. Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town ranks sixth in Africa and 16th globally, with a crime index of 73.7. As a popular destination for tourism and business, its safety challenges remain a topic of concern.

Read also: See how high Nigeria ranks on 2024 crime index

7. Lagos, Nigeria

Lagos is the seventh-ranked city in Africa, with a crime index of 68.1. It is ranked 29th globally. As one of the continent’s most populous cities, Lagos faces a variety of security issues linked to its size and economic activity.

8. Windhoek, Namibia

Windhoek is eighth in Africa, with a crime index of 66.9. It is ranked 34th globally. The city’s crime levels have raised concerns for residents and visitors.

Read also: 10 least liveable cities in the world in 2024

9. Harare, Zimbabwe

Harare ranks ninth in Africa, with a crime index of 61.5. It holds the 63rd position globally. The city has faced longstanding safety concerns that affect its urban and residential areas.

10. Nairobi, Kenya

Nairobi completes the list, ranking tenth in Africa with a crime index of 59.7. It is ranked 73rd globally. The city’s crime rate impacts its residents and businesses, with measures in place to improve safety.